Former Canadian Prime Minister Brian Mulroney, who served as the 18th Prime Minister of Canada from 1984 to 1993, has passed away at the age of 84, his daughter Caroline Mulroney announced on Thursday.
In a heartfelt message shared on social media platform X, Caroline Mulroney wrote, “On behalf of my mother and our family, it is with great sadness we announce the passing of my father, The Right Honorable Brian Mulroney, Canada’s 18th Prime Minister. He died peacefully, surrounded by family.”
Prime Minister Justin Trudeau also expressed his condolences on X, stating, “I’ll never forget the insights he shared with me over the years — he was generous, tireless, and incredibly passionate.”
Trudeau described himself as “devastated” upon learning of Mulroney’s death, highlighting Mulroney’s relentless dedication to serving Canadians and his commitment to improving the country.
Brian Mulroney, born to working-class Irish-Canadian parents in 1939, rose to prominence as a lawyer and a skilled orator. He led the Progressive Conservative Party to a historic victory in 1984, securing the largest majority in Canadian history. However, his tenure saw both highs and lows.
Mulroney’s leadership was marked by his efforts to emulate the conservative principles of leaders like US President Ronald Reagan and British Prime Minister Margaret Thatcher. He aimed to reshape Canada’s economic and social landscape by implementing significant policy changes, including the Canada-United States Free Trade Agreement in 1988 and the introduction of a goods and services tax in 1991, which, despite being politically unpopular, helped stabilize the government’s finances.
Despite his achievements, Mulroney’s administration faced numerous scandals, and his popularity plummeted. In 1993, amid a depressed economy and mounting public discontent, his party suffered a crushing defeat in the federal election, leading to his resignation shortly thereafter.
Throughout his life, Brian Mulroney remained a pivotal figure in Canadian politics, leaving a lasting impact on the nation’s history and political landscape. His legacy will be remembered by many Canadians for his dedication to public service and his contributions to shaping the country’s future.
